Next Step Orthotics & Prosthetics Named Regional Finalist by U.S. Chamber

Citing the company’s innovation and perseverance, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce today named Manchester, NH-based Next Step Orthotics & Prosthetics as one of the seven regional finalists for the 2011 DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award sponsored by Sam’s Club®.

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, these seven small businesses are recognized for their innovative business practices and their role in reenergizing our nation’s economy.

“Next Step Orthotics & Prosthetics has turned a dream into a reality through hard work and perseverance,” said Thomas J. Donohue, the U.S. Chamber’s president and CEO. “It is a true leader in our economic recovery, and today we honor Next Step Orthotics & Prosthetics employees, and an American dream that is alive and stronger than ever.”

One finalist will be announced at America’s Small Business Summit, May 23–25, in Washington, D.C. as the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award winner on May 24th and will receive a $10,000 cash prize, courtesy of the U.S. Chamber.

“We are truly honored to be recognized with such a prestigious award and are thrilled to be able to represent the entire Eastern region in May to promote the good work of all small businesses in the region,” said Next Step President and CPO Matt Albuquerque. “This award is testament to the hard work of our dedicated staff and the importance of our mission – to consistently innovate so that our clients may lead happier, active and more fulfilled lives.”

A privately held company headquartered in Manchester, NH with offices in Newton, MA and Warwick, RI, Next Step Orthotics & Prosthetics provides orthotic and prosthetic devices to clients of all ages – from pediatric to geriatric. The company is practitioner owned and operated, and some staff members are amputees themselves. Known for their innovation, Next Step prosthetists and clinicians work with research facilities and prosthetic manufacturers in developing new prosthetic technologies and components.

Next Step Orthotics & Prosthetics was selected from a record number of nationwide applicants this year and will be honored at America’s Small Business Summit 2011 from May 23-25 in Washington, D.C. The company has already been awarded a Blue Ribbon Small Business Award from the U.S. Chamber and is still in the running for the U.S. Chamber’s Community Excellence Award, which is to be decided by online public voting that ended March 11th. That winner will be announced at the Summit. The U.S. Chamber’s awards program is designed to honor the nation’s job creators and recognize their significant contributions as drivers of economic growth.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world’s largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors and regions as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.